In an effort to help digest and contextualise the UNGASS Outcome Document, this IDPC briefing paper explores a selection of key themes by analysing the consensus-based language agreed by UN member states during high-level meetings over the last quarter of a century. The briefing studies the evolution in agreed language on: the success/failure of drug control, harm reduction, human rights, development, civil society engagement, criminal justice responses and flexibilities in the conventions, access to controlled medicines and UN systemwide coherence.